The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Albania, Mr Ferit Hoxha, paid an official visit to Nicosia on the occasion of the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Albania and the Republic of Cyprus.

During the visit, Minister Hoxha held meetings with the President of the Republic of Cyprus, Mr Nikos Christodoulides, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Constantinos Kombos, the President of the House of Representatives, Ms Annita Demetriou, as well as the Deputy Minister for European Affairs, Ms Marilena Raouna.

The meetings reaffirmed the excellent state of bilateral relations and the shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation between the two countries in areas of mutual interest.

Minister Hoxha expressed his appreciation for Cyprus’ continued support for Albania’s European integration process, as well as for Cyprus’ constructive role during its Presidency of the Council of the European Union in advancing the EU enlargement agenda.

The discussions also highlighted Cyprus’ valuable contribution to Albania’s EU accession process and its continued support for Albania’s European aspirations.

Both sides agreed on the importance of further strengthening economic and business cooperation, including in the fields of trade, investment, tourism, education, energy and other sectors with significant potential for mutual benefit.

A particularly positive development in bilateral relations is the forthcoming launch of the direct Tirana-Nicosia air connection, which is expected to bring the people of the two countries closer, facilitate business exchanges and further promote tourism and economic cooperation.

Minister Hoxha was accompanied by the non-resident Ambassador of the Republic of Albania to the Republic of Cyprus, Mrs Luela Hajdaraga, together with the Albanian delegation.